In recent months, the Miss Universe pageant has made headlines not just for its spectacle but for the surrounding controversies. One contestant at the center of this storm is Onyinyechi Basil, who proudly represented Nigeria in the 2025 event. In an exclusive interview with the Nigerian media outlet QED, the 25-year-old beauty queen shared insights into her motivations for entering the competition and the challenging landscape experienced by contestants this year.
Having been crowned Miss Nigeria in August after competing against 22 remarkable women in Lagos, Basil found herself stepping onto a global stage. She emphasized the gap between mental preparation and the reality of the event. “You can prepare mentally,” she noted, adding, “but it’s another thing entirely to live it.” This sentiment captures the essence of her journey, navigating not just the glitz and glamour but also the unexpected pressures that come with competing internationally.
The atmosphere at this year’s Miss Universe pageant was rife with tension from the outset. Allegations of mistreatment towards contestants were rampant in the media, drawing attention to the darker side of what is often an anticipated celebration of beauty and talent. Basil’s experience coincided with various alarming incidents, including the hospitalization of Miss Jamaica, who tragically fell from the stage and spent days recovering. This year’s pageant also faced serious allegations involving senior organizers, with some charged with financial-related offenses, leading to a significant resignation from Olivia Yacé, who formerly held the Miss Universe Africa & Oceania title. Yacé’s departure underscored the instability surrounding the event and raised questions about its future.
Amidst this chaos, Basil described her journey as a whirlwind of long hours, strict schedules, and significant pressure. While she refrained from diving deeply into the controversies that colored the 2025 pageant, she did touch upon her reflections regarding transparency in international competitions. Basil, having grown up watching Miss Universe, mentioned feeling that past editions were “more open,” highlighting the importance of accountability and visibility in such prestigious events.
Though Basil didn’t clinch the crown, her pride in showcasing Nigerian culture shone through during the interview. “I represented all of Nigeria—from the buzz in Lagos to the calm in the North,” she passionately declared. Her mission was to share the multifaceted stories of her homeland, connecting not only with her fellow contestants but also bringing to light the richness and diversity of Nigeria. “I wanted the world to see that Nigerians are not just beautiful on the outside, but deeply kind within,” she emphasized, celebrating the depth of her heritage.
Overall, her experience was a transformative one. Basil spoke candidly about her personal growth through the competition. “I realized just how confident I am,” she asserted. Representing a country on a global stage is no small feat; it requires a blend of courage and authenticity. Basil embraced these traits wholeheartedly, taking pride in standing tall for herself and her nation in a highly competitive arena.